How to Avoid Bali Belly : Surviving in Paradise
An ultimate guide to ensuring your Balinese adventure doesn’t come with Bali Belly – unexpected digestive pitfalls.
Bali, the ‘Island of the Gods’, beckons travelers from all over the world with its pristine beaches, serene temples, and lush landscapes. However, it’s also notorious for the dreaded ‘Bali Belly’ – a colloquial term for traveler’s diarrhea which many tourists unfortunately encounter. Fear not! This guide answers the most frequently asked questions about Bali Belly and provides tips on how to prevent it.
Bali Belly : What You Need to Know
1. What is Bali Belly? Bali Belly is not unique to Bali. It’s essentially traveler’s diarrhea and is caused by consuming contaminated food or water. Symptoms include stomach cramps, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea.
2. How long does Bali Belly last? Most cases last between 1 to 4 days, but severe cases can last a week or longer. If symptoms persist, it’s essential to seek medical attention.
3. Can you get Bali Belly more than once? Yes. Just because you’ve had it once doesn’t mean you’re immune. Each exposure to contaminated food or water can result in a new bout.
Tips & Tricks to Avoid Bali Belly:
1. Drink Bottled Water: Always drink bottled water and ensure the seal is intact when you buy it. Avoid tap water, even for brushing your teeth.
2. Avoid Ice: Unless you’re certain the ice is made from purified water, it’s best to avoid it. Remember, freezing doesn’t kill bacteria!
3. Eat Freshly Cooked Food: Hot, freshly cooked food is generally safer. Avoid buffets where food may have been sitting out for a while.
4. Wash Your Hands: Regularly wash your hands with soap, especially before eating. Carry hand sanitizer for when soap and water aren’t available.
5. Stick to Reputable Eateries: Popular places or those with good online reviews are usually a safer bet. Street food can be tempting, but there’s a higher risk involved.
6. Avoid Raw Foods: While salads and fruits are delicious, they might be washed with contaminated water. If you must have fruit, peel it yourself.
7. Seafood Watch: Be cautious about where and when you consume seafood. Ensure it’s from a reputable source and is fresh.
8. Dairy Caution: In areas where refrigeration is questionable, avoid dairy products.
What to do if you get Bali Belly?
Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of purified water. Oral rehydration solutions can help replace lost salts and minerals.
- Eat Light: Stick to bland foods. The BRAT diet (Bananas, Rice, Applesauce, Toast) is a good starting point.
- Avoid Caffeine and Alcohol: They can worsen dehydration.
- Consult a Doctor: If symptoms are severe or prolonged, see a doctor. They may prescribe antibiotics or other treatments.
Natural Emergency Actions for Bali Belly:
If the dreaded belly blues strike, nature has a few remedies up her sleeve.
1. Ginger Tea: Known for its anti-inflammatory properties, ginger can soothe the stomach. Boil fresh slices in water for a simple tea.
2. Bananas: Rich in pectin, bananas can help bulk up stools. Plus, they’re a source of potassium, which aids in replenishing lost electrolytes.
3. Coconut Water: A natural electrolyte powerhouse, it helps combat dehydration. Just ensure it’s fresh!
4. Turmeric: A natural antiseptic and anti-inflammatory, turmeric can be mixed with warm water or coconut milk and consumed.
5. Rice Water: The starchy liquid left after boiling rice can act as a demulcent, helping to coat the lining of the stomach and reduce irritation.
6. Yogurt: If you’re certain of its freshness and source, yogurt contains probiotics that can restore the natural flora of your gut.
7. Papaya: This tropical fruit contains enzymes that aid digestion and can help soothe the stomach.
8. Seek a Local Healer: Bali has a rich tradition of natural medicine. You need help? Try our aqua colon therapy, seize your consultation with us with no fee!
Can aqua colon therapy help with Bali Belly? Here’s what we know:
- Immediate Relief from Symptoms: The process of flushing out the colon might provide temporary relief from some symptoms like bloating or discomfort. It could potentially help in removing some pathogens or toxins, providing immediate relief.
- Risk of Dehydration: Since Bali Belly already causes diarrhea which can lead to dehydration, colon hydrotherapy, which further removes fluids from the body, might exacerbate the risk of dehydration if you dont maintain your hydration level well. In the other hand, if you maintain you water intake, colon therapy will help to flush out the toxins inside your body quickly. Please be mindful that, it’s really essential to maintain proper fluid intake during such times.
- Potential Risks: Aqua colon therapy is not without risks. These can include bowel perforation, infections, and electrolyte imbalances. It’s essential to have the procedure done by trained professionals in hygienic settings.
Note: While natural remedies can help, it’s essential to consult with a healthcare professional if symptoms are severe or persistent. Dehydration can be dangerous, and professional medical intervention might be necessary.
To Sum Up
Bali is a tapestry of vibrant cultures, breathtaking landscapes, and culinary delights. With a dash of precaution and a sprinkle of nature’s best remedies, you can ensure your journey remains memorable for all the right reasons. Dive deep, explore with abandon, and let Bali’s charm work its magic – while keeping Bali Belly at bay! Safe journeys!